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Daily Digest - May 1, 2020

“The current circumstances compel us to make changes as we keep our promises … In the midst of the global pandemic, we are once again making adjustments to assure that we fulfill our responsibilities and remain fully self-supporting.”The Rev. Brian K. Milford, United Methodist Publishing House president and publisher, on the decision to lay off about 70 employees. 


NEWS AND FEATURES

Publishing house laying off about 70 workers 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UM News) — The United Methodist Publishing House is laying off about 70 workers beginning in June, partly because of the impact of the coronavirus on church attendance. The layoffs, about one-fourth of the 296 employees, were announced as the denominational publishing agency predicted as much as a 50% decline in sales. Kathy L. Gilbert reports. 
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United Methodist Communications
A pandemic changes everything, even grief

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMC.org) — When Gerri Helms lost her husband to a sudden heart attack, she learned firsthand how COVID-19 changes grief. “People are finding ways to let you know they are there for you,” Helms said, “but it’s nothing like a family being together.” Crystal Caviness reports.
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Western North Carolina Conference
Being the rural church in a pandemic

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — Rural churches have a unique opportunity to provide resources, connections and hope during these stressful times. The Means of Grace podcast features a conversation with the Revs. Santosh Niroula, Kristen Richardson-Frick and Allen Stanton, three leaders who have experience and expertise in leading and understanding churches in rural areas.
Listen to podcast


PRESS RELEASES

United Methodist Communications
#IGiveUMC campaign honors loved ones
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The new #IGiveUMC campaign launched this week invites donations in honor of a loved one to the church their honoree attends, their own church or a church with family ties. The giving campaign by United Methodist Communications in partnership with the General Council on Finance and Administration encourages donors to post a photograph or video on social media using the campaign hashtag. 
Read press release

Archives and History
New leader sought for Archives and History

MADISON, N.J.  — The Rev. Alfred T. Day, top executive, United Methodist Commission on Archives and History, has announced his plans to retire before the end of 2020. Day served 45 years in pastoral and supervisory ministries in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference and globally in his role with Archives and History. People wishing to apply for the general secretary position must submit materials by June 15.
Read press release


COMMENTARIES
UM News includes in the Daily Digest various commentaries about issues in the denomination. The opinion pieces reflect a variety of viewpoints and are the opinions of the writers, not the UM News staff.

Florida Conference
The difficulties are real, but no one is alone

SAN ANTONIO — If you are struggling to find a sustainable rhythm or sense of balance in this time of isolation, know that you are not alone. The Rev. Lenora Rousseau, a pastoral director and chaplain, offers suggestions for dealing with the stress and responding positively to God.
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EVENTS

Tuesday, May 5

Reconciling Ministries’ Facebook Live worship service: “Be Still and Know"


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